Icebreaker connection to Mt Nicholas

New Zealand is notorious for three aspects; scenery, adrenaline sports and farm-life. Both cows and sheep outnumber the amount of people in New Zealand!

Sheep numbers have fallen to approximately 30 million, having reached a record 70 million in the late 1980’s.

The human population of New Zealand is continually rising, reaching nearly 4.5 million people.

This equates to around one person to every seven sheep.

New Zealand’s first sheep was introduced by Captain Cook in the 1700’s. The Merino sheep were the first breed to be brought to New Zealand in bulk, first being transported from Australia, then from European countries to gain better quality. In the late 1800’s New Zealand Merino had become its own unique type.

Merino wool is fantastic for clothing because it is not only regarded as the finest and softest of any sheep wool, but is also excellent at regulating body temperature; keeping you cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather. The wool also absorbs water, retaining warmth when wet and contains lanolin which is known for its antibacterial properties. Perfect for New Zealand; being the outdoorsy, active country it is.

Only a short 45 minute cruise ride out of the hustle and bustle of Queenstown you’ll find the authentic and raw Mt Nicholas High Country Farm. Home to around 28,000 Merino sheep. These sheep are grown to produce some of the world’s premium-quality wool, with around 85-90% of it going to the company Icebreaker.

Mt Nicholas is one of the oldest and largest farms in New Zealand. Mainly due to Icebreaker, the family-run farm can remain financially secure due to the long term contracts signed by both parties. These contracts also ensure high standards are set regarding environmental protection, animal welfare and wool quality.

The Spirit of Queenstown operates a cruise over Lake Wakatipu to Mt Nicholas High Country Farm, offering views down towards Glenorchy and the Southern Alps. On arrival at Mt Nicholas, you can be fortunate to see a glimpse into this remote, working farm and walk through the Icebreaker story. The extraordinary landscape offers a vast array of beauty and solitude, whilst seeing into the lives of real farmers who put food in our bellies and clothing on our backs. A sight rarely seen but definitely a must-do for anyone visiting New Zealand!